Early Cab 414 dining chair - Mario Bellini - CASSINA

Cab 414 Armchairs by Mario Bellini for Cassina
Early Production Armchairs in Burnt Sienna Saddle Leather

Designed by Mario Bellini and introduced in 1977, the Cab series stands as one of the most radical and influential seating concepts of Italian postwar design. Conceived as a structural experiment rather than a conventional chair, the Cab is built around a steel skeleton fully dressed in thick saddle leather, shaped and tensioned directly onto the frame. The Cab 414 represents the most generous and sculptural armchair version within the Cab family.

These armchairs originate from an early production phase. This is evidenced by the use of thick full grain saddle leather with a natural surface finish, the robust and slightly irregular stitching, and the original construction method in which the leather was wet formed directly over the steel frame. Later productions display softer leathers and more uniform finishes, whereas these examples retain the raw architectural character of Bellini’s original concept.

The leather is finished in a refined burnt sienna tone, positioned between red brown and terracotta, with warm earthy undertones and without purple or wine notes. This coloration is characteristic of early vegetable tanned Cassina saddle leathers and develops depth over time rather than fading. It is neither cognac nor classic burgundy, but a nuanced warm red brown that enhances the sculptural presence of the design.

The armchairs are in very good vintage condition, showing honest surface wear and a beautiful natural patina consistent with age and use. There are no structural or constructional defects. The frames are solid, the seating is stable and comfortable, and all stitching remains intact. The chairs remain unaltered and preserve the integrity of the original materials.

The Cab 414 is a discontinued model and no longer part of the current Cassina collection. In contrast, the Cab 412 and 413 remain in production. Early examples such as these represent a closed chapter within the Cab series and hold particular relevance for collectors and design focused interiors.

Technical details
• Designer: Mario Bellini
• Manufacturer: Cassina, Italy
• Period: Late 1970s to early 1980s
• Materials: Full grain saddle leather, steel frame
• Condition: Correct vintage condition with natural patina, no structural or constructional defects